[a / b / c / d / e / f / g / gif / h / hr / k / m / o / p / r / s / t / u / v / vg / w / wg] [i / ic] [r9k] [cm / hm / y] [3 / adv / an / cgl / ck / co / diy / fa / fit / hc / int / jp / lit / mlp / mu / n / po / pol / sci / soc / sp / tg / toy / trv / tv / vp / x] [rs] [status / ? / @] [Settings] [Home]
Board:  
Settings   Home
4chan
/qst/ - Quests


File: AC7 Attack Alt.jpg (1023 KB, 2550x1650)
1023 KB
1023 KB JPG
The Lighthouse War is over, but conflict still continues.

With Erusea's defeat at the hands of the Osean Federation and the International United Nations, the imperial nation has splintered into a confusing mess of separatists, freedom fighters, warlords, rogue military factions, and those seeking to profit from the chaos. Worse, Erusea's many automated drone factories still remain intact, waiting for new masters to come to claim them.

The Usean continent remains in crisis, and it's up to a new generation of pilots to face this next generation threat...

---
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MercCommand

Archive: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=Unknown%20Sky%20Ace%20Combat%20Quest

Other Quests: https://pastebin.com/KYvGiNas

Rules and Stats: https://pastebin.com/9XGwuWZx
---
You are MILLY, the "Red Tail", a Belkan Air Force pilot fighting for the IUN!

And so you finally find Princess Cossette. However, it looked like she was already in the middle of something, standing on a balcony overlooking the bay with an old man in a wheelchair. They were both facing away from you, and haven't noticed your presence yet.

You're not 100% sure yet, but you have the sneaking suspicion that old man in the wheelchair is a pilot. Well, was a pilot, in any case. There was something about the way he carried himself that seemed very familiar to you.

It also didn't take long for you to notice that this dude was, at least physically, completely fucked up. The skin on his face was twisted, wrinkled and pockmarked with a combination of age, scars, and burns. His hair and beard were dirty white haggard,. The rest of his body, even under his clothes, looked to be nothing more than a withered skeleton. You had heard stories from older pilots about the intense stresses long term piloting could inflict on the body, but you weren't sure if that were the case here or of it was just old age. Or maybe a combination of both.

But the one thing that didn't seem to have been ruined by time were his eyes. It was a bit difficult to tell what they were conveying, but you could feel some measure of sadness... or regret? You weren't totally sure.

It seemed like the two of them were talking about something, but you were still a bit too far away to hear anything.

>Try to listen in on what they're talking about.
>Go greet them.
>Other
>>
>>3878772
>Try to listen in on what they're talking about.
>>
File: Crest.png (79 KB, 1000x1000)
79 KB
79 KB PNG
>>3878772
>>Go greet them.

Time for some planes.

Also, a little doodle.
>>
>>3878772
>Go greet them.
>>
>>3878772
>Go greet them.

I'm all for gathering info but if we get caught just randomly listening in that's gonna be extremely awkward
>>
>>3878783
Based art anon
Bravo
>>
File: Akatsuki candy.jpg (402 KB, 1000x851)
402 KB
402 KB JPG
>>3878783
Nice
>>
>>3878772
>>Try to listen in on what they're talking about.
>>
>>3878772
>>Try to listen in on what they're talking about.
>>
File: 1430971828180.jpg (229 KB, 896x935)
229 KB
229 KB JPG
Rolled 1 (1d2)

>>3878772
Looks like we've got a tie so we'll have to roll it off!

1. Listen
2. Approach
>>
>>3878772
>>Try to listen in on what they're talking about
>>
File: 39082943.png (472 KB, 700x550)
472 KB
472 KB PNG
Rolled 17, 17, 14 = 48 (3d20)

>>3878881
You decide to hang back a bit, deciding to try and listen in to whatever you can.

>Roll 1d20
>>
>>3878881
2. Approach
>Approach
>>
Rolled 3 (1d20)

>>3878887
>>
Rolled 12 (1d20)

>>3878887
>>
Rolled 8 (1d20)

>>3878887
>>
File: Mihaly 2.jpg (1.57 MB, 1920x1080)
1.57 MB
1.57 MB JPG
>>3878887
You try to inch yourself a little closer, but you must've made some sort of noise or something, since the old man quickly speaks up.

"It's rude to listen in on other people's conversations." He says, his voice just as rough and gravelly has his appearance. "At least have the courtesy of announcing yourself."

"Oh my, Milly!" Princess Cossette gasps as she turns and sees you. "I didn't realize you arrived!"

"Yeah, I literally just got here." You laugh sheepishly.

"Princess, please turn me around." The old man says quietly.

"Oh my, of course!" Princess Cossette frets as she quickly steps behind the old man's wheelchair and pivots it around so he can face you.

He stares at you long and hard, almost to the point of making you uncomfortable. The somberness in his eyes is immediately dispelled, now resembling those of a predatory bird, taking a measure of its target.

"Um, welll, I'm Milly. Milly Welter." You explain awkwardly. "A pilot for the Belkan Air Force."

"Belkan..." The old man seems to nod a bit. "I presume you were the one flying that Berkut earlier today?"

>Um, yeah.
>No...
>How the hell did you know?
>Other
>>
>>3878913
>Um, yeah.
>>
>>3878913
>Um, yeah.
>>
>>3878913
>>Um, yeah.
>>
>>3878913
>Um, yeah.
>>
>>3878913
>How the hell did you know?
>>
>>3878913
>>How the hell did you know?
>>
File: Mihaly 3.png (1.28 MB, 1920x1090)
1.28 MB
1.28 MB PNG
>>3878913
"Um, yeah." You nod, a bit too bewildered to ask how he knew. At this point, you wouldn't be surprised if he was some sort of wizard or something.

"Hm, I thought so." The old man nods.

There's another awkward silence.

"Aren't you going to introduce yourself?" Princess Cossette coughs, prodding the old man to keep speaking.

"If I must." The old man sighs and closes his eyes, as if trying recall something. Did he seriously forget his name-

"My name is Mihaly Dumitru Margareta Corneliu Leopold Blanca Karol Aeon Ignatius Raphael Maria Niketas A. Shilage." He says calmly. "Though, you may just call me Mihaly, for obvious reasons."

>...what.
>Cool!
>Other
>>
>>3878974
>>...what.

"And, I'm...uh...Milly, I guess..."
>>
>>3878974
>>...what.
>>
>>3878974
>Cool!
>>
>>3878974
>Cool!

A pleasure to meet you sir
>>
>>3878974
>>...what.
Who the hell has names this long other than royalty of old?
>>
>>3878974
>Wait, what's the A stand for?
>>
>>3878974
I can go with >>3878978

I guess it's time for some casual music https://youtu.be/J0hlOvnBBF8
>>
>>3878991
Switching to this
>What does the "A" stand for


I love the autism of it
>>
>>3878974
>Wait, what's the 'A' stand for?
>>
File: Mihaly.jpg (210 KB, 1920x1080)
210 KB
210 KB JPG
>>3878974
"...what." You blanch.

"I understand my name may be a bit confusing-" Mihaly starts.

"No, I'm just stuck wondering what the hell the A stands for." You frown.

There's a loud snorting sound as Mihaly tries to suppress a laugh. Princess Cossette almost goes white at the sight, as if this was the very first time she ever saw the guy laugh or even chuckle. Guess this Mihaly guy was usually pretty dour.

"Even I do not remember at this point." Mihaly grunts after regaining his composure.

"Mihaly is royalty too, you see." Cossette adds. "In fact, he's actually a king."

"A Duke, to be more accurate." Mihaly grumbles.

"A king?" You blink, glancing at Mihaly. "Um, no offense, but you don't seem particularly... royal."

"I traded my crown for wings." Mihaly cranes his head upward, gazing at the sky stained orange with the dusk light. "It was the least Erusea could do to secure my loyalty."

"His country, Shilage, was one of the many annexed by Erusea." Princess Cossette explains, a small hint of regret in her voice. "Even know, its status remains in flux as its native people fight to regain their independence."

"It's nothing for you to be concerned with." Mihaly says coldly.

>You're not going to fight for your home?
>Sounds like they just brought trouble on themselves...
>Other
>>
>>3879037
Both options sound insulting desu
>>
>>3879037
>You're not going to fight for your home?
>>
>>3879037
>You're not going to fight for your home?

I'm gonna go with this, although seeing as how the guy is a literal invalid in a wheelchair it's kind of a derpy question.
>>
>>3879037
>>You're not going to fight for your home?
>>
>>3879037
>>Sounds like they just brought trouble on themselves...
>>
>>3879037
>You're not going to fight for your home?
>>
File: PAK-FA.jpg (460 KB, 768x432)
460 KB
460 KB JPG
>>3879037
"You're not worried about your own homeland?" You blink.

"After joining the Erusean Air Force, I gave up any desire to return to my former home." Mihaly says as he continues to stare at the sky above. "I found a new home to covet."

It's only for a brief second, but you realize why the aura around Mihaly seemed so damn familiar to you. For just an instant, you saw Karla sitting in that wheelchair, gazing at the sky above.

"The sky is my domain." Mihaly continues. "It is where I lived. It is where I hoped to die. But... fate can be cruel at times."

"Don't say that!" Princess Cossette slaps Mihaly lightly on the shoulder like a disappointed mother. "You still have two granddaughters to look after!"

"My apologies." Mihaly says simply and turns his gaze to you. "And so why do you fly, Milly? What pushes you to reach for heights few dare even approach?"

That was... an interesting question.

>You just love flying.
>You want fly for your country.
>You want to get revenge on those who wronged you.
>Other
>>
File: 1548908076823.png (1 KB, 106x106)
1 KB
1 KB PNG
>>3879082
>You want fly for your country.
>>
>>3879082
>You want to fly for your country.
>>
>>3879082
>You just love flying.
>>
>>3879082
>>You want fly for your country.
Both reason why she started flying and why she continued to fly until now.
>>
File: 1400776530634.gif (240 KB, 800x600)
240 KB
240 KB GIF
>>3879082
>You want fly for your country.

National revenge and justice my friends. Personal revenge is just icing on the cake.
We avenge ourselves by making Belka great.
Sieg Belka
>>
>>3879082
>You want fly for your country.
>>
>>3879082
>>You want to fly for your country.
The sky above watching over the sacred clay below.
>>
>>3879082
>>You want fly for your country.
I'm surprised nobody's voted outright for revenge yet.
>>
>>3879126
I mean i think both blocs of voters here are in agreement that Milly's desire for revenge isn't really a selfish revenge. She wants revenge for Belka. Can't really seperate the Burning of Hoffnung from the Belkan War after all.
>>
File: Fleisher.jpg (140 KB, 755x376)
140 KB
140 KB JPG
>>3879082
A warm feeling flits through your heart as you recall an old lecture from the Professor, so many years ago. How he accidentally segued into the story of when he first joined the Belkan Air Force. The pride and sense of fulfillment he felt flying to defend Belka's land and honor.

It was then that you felt so jealous of him. Of finding that one true calling to fill the void in your heart. The reason you wanted to fly in the first place.

"I'm flying for my country, of course." You smile. "To defend its land and honor."

"I see." Mihaly nods. "It seems that we've started on different paths, then."

>Sorta looks like that, yeah.
>Any chance you could give me some pointers? Pilot to pilot?
>Other
>>
>>3879129
>Any chance you could give me some pointers? Pilot to pilot?


Cant wait till we open a roster book and see he was Eruseas baddest boi. Surprised we haven't heard his name given how successful he was as an ace.
>>
>>3879129
>>Any chance you could give me some pointers? Pilot to pilot?
>>
>>3879129
>>Any chance you could give me some pointers? Pilot to pilot?

We pretty much need every edge we can get to beat these drones.
>>
>>3879129
>Any chance you could give me some pointers? Pilot to pilot?
>>
>>3879129
>>Any chance you could give me some pointers? Pilot to pilot?
If anyone knows how to take down the drones, it's the man who provided their combat data.

>>3879128
I'm just honestly a bit confused about this whole thing. I'm all for making Belka great again, but do you think it's ever occurred to Milly that making Belka great again for the sake of revenge is what started 2 wars, nearly ushered in a drone apocalypse, and resulted in the untimely death of probably one of if not the only decent politician we've ever seen in Strangereal?
>>
>>3879129
>Any chance you could give me some pointers? Pilot to pilot?
>>
File: Milly 2.jpg (44 KB, 350x569)
44 KB
44 KB JPG
>>3879129
"So, uh, any chance you could give me some pointers? Pilot to pilot?" You ask.

Mihaly is silent for a moment.

>Roll 1d20
>>
Rolled 20 (1d20)

>>3879171
uh oh dice roll
>>
Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>3879171
>>
Rolled 17 (1d20)

>>3879171


>>3879175
Is high good or bad on the D20s here i forgot
>>
Rolled 11 (1d20)

>>3879171
>>3879175
We learned the shit out of Mihaly
>>
>>3879177
high on d20 is good, low on d10 is good.
>>
>>3879175
You.

Thank you.
>>
File: D05KOuQVAAEd_Es.jpg (49 KB, 749x544)
49 KB
49 KB JPG
>>3879178
>>3879185
Thank you based Erusea.
>>
>>3879188
Erusea might be a joke but Mihaly isn't

Make Shilage Great Again.

BTW Merc, did Wit survive in this quest?
>>
File: Mihaly 4.jpg (224 KB, 1920x1080)
224 KB
224 KB JPG
>>3879171
Mihaly just stares at you again, looking at you long and hard before settling back into his wheelchair.

"You cannot rule the skies by flying safe." He says grimly. "You can't settle for merely pushing the limits of your physical abilities, you must strive to exceed them. And not just for an emergency, but at any time."

"Mihaly..." Princess Cossette looks at him in concern.

"In the sky, against another pilot, it is life and death." Mihaly coughs. "The one willing to risk more, to put everything on the line, will be the victor."

You pause at that. Was he really saying what you thought...?

"That's all I have to say on the matter." Mihaly grunts as he closes his eyes. "Do with that information as you will."

>PUSH THE LIMIT gained! In the event of a failed ACM roll, even a critfail, players may choose to instead convert it into an automatic success at the cost of physical injury to Milly.

"Come along, now." Princess Cossette says softly as she takes your hand and leads you away. "He's absolutely exhausted. Coming out to watch that little aerial battle today took a lot out of him..."

>But I want to talk to him more...
>Okay, let's go.
>Other
>>
>>3879196
>>But I want to talk to him more...
What was it like to fight against Three Strikes?
>>
>>3879196
>Okay, let's go.

"Always nice to meet a war hero Mr. Mihaly. Thank you."

---

Also hype for BERSERKER RUSH Milly
>>
>>3879196
>Okay, let's go.
>>
>>3879196
>Okay, let's go.
>>
>>3879196
>Okay, let's go.
>>
>>3879196
>Okay, let's go.
Need to go find mini-Karla and tell her how great her homeland is.
>>
>>3879196
So when we are talking "Physical injury", does this mean we'd roll for it? Like we unironically snap our wrist if we roll poorly enough for the injury?
>>
>>3879205
The real question is which level will this injury go, Guld level or Mikazuki level?
>>
>>3879209
If Milly ends up with an eyepatch by the end of this i will not be unpleased.
>>
>>3879196
>>Okay, let's go.

>>3879205
I'm expecting broken bones, heavy bruising, and not being able to walk for a while among other things.
>>
>>3879212
Could be something more subtle as well. Organ damage from ungodly G Force isn't out of the question. Given our Berkut I imagine we will be able to pull off some brow raising maneuvers
>>
>>3879214
At the rate we're upgrading, Milly's body will break first before her plane.
>>
>>3879219
Unless she learns how to restrain herself. Minimize the damage to herself while squeezing out what she needs from the plane. Trigger didn't need to fly like Mihaly to shoot him down.

As Capt. Bartlett once said: "We can replace these things, it's getting the crew back alive that counts."
>>
File: Red 18.jpg (368 KB, 1225x1797)
368 KB
368 KB JPG
>>3879196
"All right, I got it." You nod and turn to Mihaly. "It was nice to meet you, Mr. Mihaly. Thank you."

Mihaly just gives you a silent nod before Princess Cossette leads you away.

"I'm quite surprised he was so talkative with you!" She says, rather impressed. "He's normally very taciturn, even around his family."

"Guess it's a respect between pilots." You grin. "He's THE Sol 1, right? Erusea's greatest fighter ace?"

"If you don't count Yellow 13." Princess Cossette gives a wry smile. "But yes, that is him, in the flesh."

"Shit, I thought he died!" You gasp.

"And so does the rest of the world." Princess Cossette nods. "It's not something we like to advertise. I doubt even his surviving squadronmates know."

"Well where are they now?" You wonder.

"Last I heard, fighting for Shilage's independence." Princess Cossette says sadly. "They are all from Voslage, another nation Erusea swallowed up in its age of expansion. I suppose they see fighting for Shilage as a way to fight for their own homeland."

>Sounds like they're fighting the good fight.
>But they're trying to break away from Erusea...
>Other
>>
>>3879225
>Sounds like they're fighting the good fight.
>>
>>3879225
>But they're trying to break away from Erusea...

I see some interesting parallels here to Ustio breaking from Belka. Let's see where this line of thought goes.

Also rule of thumb: dont shit on a country in front of their monarch
>>
>>3879225
>>But they're trying to break away from Erusea...
>>
>>3879225
>But they're trying to break away from Erusea...
>>
>>3879225
>But they're trying to break away from Erusea...
>>
>>3879225
>>Sounds like they're fighting the good fight.
>>
>>3879225
>Sounds like they're fighting the good fight.
>>
>>3879225
>>But they're trying to break away from Erusea...
>>
File: 1495947742836.jpg (246 KB, 600x880)
246 KB
246 KB JPG
So does Milly use her money to secretly get herself a custom made suit of armor and sword to live out her knight fantasy in private?
>>
>>3879254
Only on Halloween.
Does Strangereal even do Halloween?
>>
File: Red 21.jpg (119 KB, 849x1200)
119 KB
119 KB JPG
>>3879225
"But they're trying to break away from Erusea..." You frown. "Aren't you bothered by that."

"I'm not sure if I can really call Erusea my home anymore." Princess Cossette says sadly as she takes a seat on a bench overlooking the bay. You naturally take a seat next to her.

"Why? Because the Conservatives run the place now?" You raise an eyebrow.

"That's part of it, yes." Princess Cossette sighs. "The Conservatives blame me for bringing Erusea to ruin and... well... they're not wrong."

"Hey, you should just pile the blame on yourself like that." You blink in surprise.

"I was blinded by my own pride and self righteousness." Princess Cossette looks to the sea, regret and sadness clear on her face. "I was so confident that with our new drone technology, we could fight Osea on even terms. Force them to admit defeat and leave Usea. But I was wrong."

"Osea and the IUN didn't back down. They kept fighting." You nod.

"I hoped they would see reason. Realize there wasn't any point causing more bloodshed. But I only ignited hatred in their hearts. And not just them, my own countrymen, too." Princess Cossette rubs at her eyes. "We never expected the war to go on for so long. Never expected the war to come to our very own cities. We couldn't do anything but make more and more drones, hoping they would solve all our problems..."

"Until you lost control of them." You conclude.

"That was the final nail the Conservatives needed." Princess Cossette says sadly. "But it's not just them. I've seen regular Erusean soldiers and civilians look on me with fear and hate. I'm the witch that brought ruin to their country. But here..."

She then motions to the refugee camp set up all around the island.

"Here, I have a chance to start over. To watch over and protect the people who need it. To be the leader I should have been." Princess Cossette smiles and then does a cute little gaps. "Oh my, I went on for quite a while there. I'm so sorry!"

"No, no, it's all right. I think I get what you're saying." You chuckle. "Guess you don't see yourself as an Erusean princess?"

"I was originally a commoner, just like everybody else. I simply had the royal name hoisted upon me by powers beyond my control." Princess Cossette shakes her head. "If it were up to me, I'd just drop the title altogether, but everyone here insists I keep it."

"I dunno, Princess Cossette of the Lighthouse has a nice ring to it." You grin.

"Oh please!' Cosette laughs. "I have little doubt our stay here is temporary. Once the situation in Usea settles down, many of these people will be able to return home. I hope I can count on you and your squadron for that."

"That's what we're here for." You grin. "And what about you? Where would you end up if you can't go back to Erusea?"

There's a brief pause.

"I'll... figure that out when the time comes." Princess Cossette answers sheepishly.

>I'm sure things will work out.
>You can always come to Belka.
>Other
>>
>>3879257
>I'm sure things will work out.
>>
>>3879257
>I'm sure things will work out.
>>
>>3879257
>>I'm sure things will work out.
>>
>>3879257
>You can always come to Belka.

AHAHAHAHA YES

Imagine the Allied Asshurt
>>
>>3879254
She probably got one to wear for the off chance of being knighted.

>>3879257
>You can always come to Belka.
>>
>>3879257
>I'm sure things will work out.
>>
>>3879257
>>You can always come to Belka.
For the Glory of Belka!
>>
>>3879257
>>You can always come to Belka.
>>
>>3879257
>>You can always come to Belka.
>>
>>3879268
>Milly, what did you do at work today?
>I brought us a Princess
>Is that your Cat?
>No i mean an actual Princess. See, she talks!
>>
>>3879257
>I'm sure things will work out.
>>
It seems we have reached an impasse
>>
>>3879257
>>You can always come to Belka.
BUT ONLY IF SHE PROMISES TO KNIGHT US
>>
File: Milly.jpg (44 KB, 700x485)
44 KB
44 KB JPG
>>3879257
"Well." You give a devilish grin. "You can always come to Belka!"

"While the offer is nice, moving to Belka could send all kinds of incorrect messages." Princess Cossette sighs. "Much of the reason the Conservatives despise me is because they think I'm a Belkan puppet."

"Speaking very frankly, screw what they think!" You huff. "You're totally cool, regardless of who's running Erusea!"

"I suppose that's something to think about, then." Princess Cossette smiles warmly.

>Well, better go and find Karla.
>Ask Princess Cossette if she's met Karla.
>Other
>>
>>3879299
>Ask Princess Cossette if she's met Karla.
>>
>>3879299
>>Ask Princess Cossette if she's met Karla.
>>
>>3879299
>Ask Princess Cossette if she's met Karla.
>>
>>3879299
>>Ask Princess Cossette if she's met Karla.
>>
>>3879299
>>Ask Princess Cossette if she's met Karla.
>>
>>3879299
>>Other
>Ask her if she can knight us!
>>
Hey you guys wanna hear a joke? What does a Communist in this world listen to music from?
>>
File: 1540987577474.jpg (35 KB, 600x600)
35 KB
35 KB JPG
>>3879308
A Yuke Box
>>
File: 1499637473011s.jpg (2 KB, 125x125)
2 KB
2 KB JPG
>>3879311
>>
File: isthisbuddyserious.jpg (12 KB, 257x294)
12 KB
12 KB JPG
>>3879311
This brings me anguish, yet also laughter at the same time
>>
This is what the V2 was for.
>>
File: Karla 32.jpg (409 KB, 700x990)
409 KB
409 KB JPG
>>3879299
"So uh, I assume you've met Karla, too?" You ask, genuinely curious.

"Of course! She's been a massive help in keeping things running smoothly here!" Princess Cossette smiles. "Having the Valkyrie here has done wonders in securing foreign aid from all over! Sometimes I feel we have more supplies than we know what to do with!"

"Heh, yeah, that sounds like Karla." You grin.

"If I understand correctly, you were her pupil?" She asks.

"I'd like to think I'm more like her squire, even if she's not actually a knight." You nod. "I mean, I learned practically everything I know about dogfighting from her!"

"Perhaps that's why Mihaly took such a liking to you." Princess Cossette's eyes widen. "Now that I think about it, it seems he and Karla seem to get along rather well, too."

>Kinda weird. Karla doesn't seem as ruthless as he is.
>Guess they both have this weird love for the sky.
>Other
>>
>>3879337
>>Guess they both have this weird love for the sky.
>>
>>3879337
>>Guess they both have this weird love for the sky.
>>
>>3879337
>>Guess they both have this weird love for the sky.
>>
>>3879337
>Guess they both have this weird love for the sky.
>>
>>3879299
>>Ask Princess Cossette if she's met Karla.
>>
>>3879337
>>Guess they both have this weird love for the sky.

Planes are love. Planes are life.
>>
File: Karla 67.jpg (187 KB, 1200x1600)
187 KB
187 KB JPG
>>3879337
"Hm, well, I'm not too surprised." You shrug. "Both he and Karla seem to share this weird love for the sky."

"It is rather romantic, don't you think?" Princess Cossette giggles. "Abandoning all worldly ties to fly high through the sky!"

"So they hang out often?" You wonder.

"Not that much, but Karla still visits him from time to time." Princess Cossette replies. "Though if his body could handle it, I do not doubt the two of them would fly against one another."

"That would totally be something I'd put money on if it happened." You grin in agreement.

"And her daughter is just so adorable, too!" Princess Cossette giggles. "I believe my friends have taken quite a liking to her, as well!"

Of course Ellisa would have already wormed her way into everybody's hearts here...

>You should go see Karla.
>You should see if Ellisa has gotten herself into trouble.
>Other
>>
>>3879357
>You should go see Karla.
>>
>>3879357
>>You should go see Karla.
Ignore Plane Brat.
>>
>>3879357
>You should see if Ellisa has gotten herself into trouble.
>>
File: Karly butterfly.jpg (531 KB, 707x1000)
531 KB
531 KB JPG
>>3879357
"Well hey, what's this I see?" Karla grins smugly as she appears behind the both of you, leaning on the back of the bench. "I never figured you and the Princess would already be besties!"

"I-It's nothing like that!" Princess Cossette stammers, her face going red.

"Well, don't worry Princess, I can handle things from here!" Karla pats Princess Cossette's shoulder. "You should go make you rounds. Looks like there's still plenty of people rattled about that little dogfight that took place earlier."

"You're right." Princess Cossette nods dutifully and stands up. "Milly, it was a pleasure seeing you again. I hope you can make Usea safe again so everybody has a home to return to."

"Thanks, Princess." You smile. "I'll do my best."

Princess Cossette gives one final polite nod before taking her leave.

"Anyways, Milly." Karla grins as she ruffles your hair. "I think I've found the answer to your little Raven problem."

"Really? What?" You ask, intrigued.

"You're gonna have to take a bit of a detour..."

>And that's it for tonight! We'll continue things on Saturday so stay tuned!
>>
>>3879371
Thanks for running Merc!
>>
File: Karla 38.jpg (779 KB, 1500x2121)
779 KB
779 KB JPG
>>3879371
"Okay, what is this detour thing you're talking about?" You narrow you eyes, a bit suspicious Karla was about to rope you into something crazy.

"Well, I was thinking. Even with a Berkut, you'd be hard pressed to go up against a Raven." Karla explains. "Ideally, you'd want another high end fighter to go up against it."

"Well, it's not like anyone's about to let Belka have any." You roll your eyes. "My Berkut is about as good as it's going to get."

"Not necessarily." Karla gives a devilish grin. "I assume you met Mihaly already?"

"Yeah." You nod ."Pretty serious guy."

"What he probably didn't tell you was that the last plane he packed was an X-02S Strike Wyvern." Karla continues. "Well, before it got shot down, anyways."

"And you think it can be salvaged?" You raise a skeptical eyebrow.

"Hey, you never know. And you got one of the best mechanics on the planet tagging along with you." Karla laughs."The Scrap Queen can make pretty much anything fly!"

"Okay, then where is this crashed Wyvern?" You ask, already dreading the answer.

"That's the awkward part." Karla laughs nervously. "It's somewhere in Shilage."

"Shilage." You grunt. "You mean a region that's currently a war zone between Erusea and Shilagean secessionists."

"That's the one." Karla nods.

>That's freaking insane!
>Sounds as good a plan as any.
>Other
>>
>>3881299
>That's freaking insane! Let's do it!
>>
>>3881299
>Sounds as good a plan as any.
>>
>>3881299
>>Sounds as good a plan as any.

Time for Dame Milly to venture off into some godforsaken war zone to retrieve a holy relic.
>>
>>3881299
>Sounds as good a plan as any.


I am very hesitant to step into a Bosnia situation where everyone is gonna be shooting at us but that's a good plane.

Maybe we can score cookie points with some of the factions there. Who knows.
>>
>>3881299
>>Sounds as good a plan as any.
>>
>>3881299
>>Sounds as good a plan as any.
>>
>>3881299
>Sounds as good a plan as any.
Karla does have connections to Pixy still, right?
>>
>>3881312
>Time for Dame Milly to venture off into some godforsaken war zone to retrieve a holy relic

The real Relic is the friends we make along the way :)
>>
>>3881334
Fuck ignore that OP nametag. I'm in two threads. :/
>>
>>3881299
"You mean like every other place we've been to on this continent?"
>>Sounds as good a plan as any.
>>
File: Karla 23.jpg (2.2 MB, 2625x4041)
2.2 MB
2.2 MB JPG
>>3881299
"Sounds as good a plan as any!" You grin. "But uh, how are we actually going to GET to Shilage? Last I checked, the IUN wasn't getting involved in the Erusean civil wars."

"As luck would have it, it seems Shilage was able to scrape together the money to hire a particular PMC to help them out." Karla winks. "It should provide enough cover for you and your squadron to slip into the country without arousing suspicion."

"Well, guess that is luck- wait what?!" You gasp. "The rest of my squadron?"

"Looks like Bandit and the others are eager to come along and give you a hand." Karla smiles. "Officially, they're just meeting you halfway to escort you back to Fort Grays. That should give you enough time to link up, get into Shilage, and get out with the Wyvern!"

"Those dummies." You chuckle. "Guess there's no helping it, then."

"Guess not." Karla pats you on the back. "Anyways, I gotta go find Ellisa. The little hellion is probably plotting another prank or something. You should go get some rest. You're gonna have to leave early tomorrow, you know."

>Yeah, you should get some rest.
>You're in the mood to hang out with Karla a little longer.
>Other
>>
>>3881398
>You're in the mood to hang out with Karla a little longer.
>>
>>3881398
>You're in the mood to hang out with Karla a little longer

Oh dear. Something tells me we are gonna get involved in the war anyways.
>>
>>3881398
>>You're in the mood to hang out with Karla a little longer.
>>
>>3881398
>You're in the mood to hang out with Karla a little longer.
>>
>>3881398
>You're in the mood to hang out with Karla a little longer.
>>
>>3881398
>>You're in the mood to hang out with Karla a little longer.
>>
File: Karla loli 9.jpg (569 KB, 1100x1556)
569 KB
569 KB JPG
>>3881398
"I can hang around a bit longer." You shrug. "Besides, I'd like to see Ellisa again, too."

"All right, well we have to be quick about it." Karla sighs. "I'm guessing she snuck into the tunnels underneath the Lighthouse. They've largely remained sealed ever since the war, and she's always expressed interest in exploring them. I don't doubt for a second she's found a way past the seals."

"So a search and rescue job. Got it." You grin cracking your knuckles. "Let's get this started, then!"

>Roll 1d10 (ID test 5)
>>
Rolled 3 (1d10)

>>3881447
>>
Rolled 8 (1d10)

>>3881447
>>
Rolled 10 (1d10)

>>3881447
>>
>>3881458
Y u do dis to us
>>
>>3881458
>>3881463
Once again, Ellie manages to escape us.
>>
>>3881447
>>3881458
Is it me or is Red losing vs Elisa a regular thing now?
>>
>>3881471
It's a theme yes
>>
File: Karla 16.png (1.41 MB, 1290x1800)
1.41 MB
1.41 MB PNG
Rolled 8, 7, 2 = 17 (3d10)

>>3881447
...
>>
File: Karla loli 10.jpg (327 KB, 800x1131)
327 KB
327 KB JPG
>>3881492
You and Karla head inside the main admin center for the Lighthouse, where you proceed to take an elevator down into its depths below.

You vaguely remember reading that the Lighthouse's engineering underground was just as massive and intricate as the mighty space elevator that reached to the heavens. Below, not only were the foundations required to anchor such a tall structure simply massive, but there was also a massive network of power supply cables, each one as thick as a subway tunnel running underneath the entire Usean continent.

Really, it was mind boggling to know that mere humans were capable of all of this.

Anyways, to service these massive power cables, there was an equally large and complex system of maintenance tunnels and access paths. It was practically a massive, artificial labyrinth down here.

"Jeez, how are we supposed to find Ellisa in all of this?" You groan as you glance at what had to be miles and miles of tunnel.

"Oh ye of little faith." Karla chuckles as she brings out a tablet. "Do you think Ellisa is going to get anywhere here by WALKING?"

It's then you see a small parking lot occupied with a number of small, open topped electric carts, obviously meant to navigate these long tunnels.

And one of them was missing.

"Okay, so we can take a cart to go after her..." You nod. "But that still doesn't solve how we'll find her."

"Every single one of these carts has a tracker." Karla points to her tablet. "It's just a matter of chasing her down!"

>Cool, I'll drive!
>Lead the way then.
>Other
>>
>>3881507
>Cool, I'll drive!
>>
>>3881507
>Cool, I'll drive!

When we get our hands on her, we're going to have to figure out what else Aunt Tarin taught her.
>>
>>3881507
>>Lead the way then.
>>
>>3881507
>Cool, I'll drive!
>>
>>3881507
>>Cool, I'll drive!
>>
>>3881507
>>Cool, I'll drive!
Hope these things have insurance.
>>
File: Red 20.jpg (404 KB, 1020x1502)
404 KB
404 KB JPG
>>3881507
"Cool! I'll drive!" You grin as you hop into the driver's seat.

"All right, I'll navigate, then." Karla hops into the passenger seat, still keeping an eye on her tablet. "Just head down that tunnel. Looks like she hasn't gotten very far so we can still catch up with her."

"Got it!" You nod as you flip the power switch on the cart. The electric engine hums to life and the vehicle lurches forward...

>Tail her quietly. See what she's up to.
>Pedal to the metal! Nab her before she does something stupid!
>Other
>>
>>3881572
>Tail her quietly. See what she's up to.
>>
>>3881572
>Tail her quietly. See what she's up to
>>
>>3881572
>>Tail her quietly. See what she's up to.

>inb4 Ellie is a sleeper agent
>>
>>3881572
>>Tail her quietly. See what she's up to.
>>
>>3881572
>>Tail her quietly. See what she's up to.
>>
>>3881572
>>Pedal to the metal! Nab her before she does something stupid!
>>
>>3881572
>Tail her quietly. See what she's up to.
>>
File: Karla loli 12.jpg (139 KB, 500x567)
139 KB
139 KB JPG
Rolled 10 (1d20)

>>3881572
You decided to try and keep your distance and tail Ellisa quietly. Just what the hell was she up to down here anyways...?

>Roll 1d20
>>
Rolled 16 (1d20)

>>3881620
>>
Rolled 7 (1d20)

>>3881620
CPS is much dissatisfied Karla. Smh.
>>
Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>3881620
>>
Rolled 3 (1d20)

>>3881620
>>
File: Karla loli.jpg (565 KB, 900x853)
565 KB
565 KB JPG
>>3881620
Thanks to Karla's directions, you're able to stay on Ellisa's tail, though just out of sight so she doesn't notice your presence.

"So what do you think she's doing down here?" You ask Karla curiously. "Doesn't seem like any sort of prank or anything."

"Probably off looking for some kind of adventure, I guess." Karla grumbles. "One of the downsides to being famous is that your kids deal with it in real weird ways. For Ellisa, it's ranging out on her own."

"Sounds a bit irresponsible." You grunt. "Letting her just run off like this?"

"Jager is generally pretty good at keeping her reined in." Karla sighs. "But we just got a new influx of refugees so he's got his hands full and she took the chance to slink off.."

"Sounds like a whole lotta trouble to deal with." You shake your head.

"Well, it's worth it in the end." Karla smile. Can't say it's boring having her around."

You were about to question the merits of such optimism when Karla glances back at the tablet and frowns.

"Looks like she stopped."

"Where?" You ask, slowing down the cart.

"In the primary data transmission hub, directly at the foot of the space elevator." Karla shakes her head. "What could she possibly be there for...?"

>Stop now and try to observe from a distance.
>Barge in and confront Ellisa.
>Other
>>
>>3881635
>Stop now and try to observe from a distance.

Is she a fucking Spook
>>
>>3881635
>Stop now and try to observe from a distance.

Oh dear god, is she going to send a message across all of Strangereal's comms networks?
>>
>>3881635
>>Stop now and try to observe from a distance.
>>
>>3881635
>>Barge in and confront Ellisa.
>>
>>3881639
If she's spying on us for Uncle the old man needs to be tazed. That would be autistic as shit and creepy.
>>
>>3881635
>Stop now and try to observe from a distance.
>>
>>3881635
>Stop now and try to observe from a distance.
>>
File: Karla 24.jpg (3.36 MB, 2571x3991)
3.36 MB
3.36 MB JPG
Rolled 16 (1d20)

>>3881635
You slowly bring the the cart to a stop just outside of the main chamber. Already, you can see somebody had left the door to the central chamber open after going through it.

"Come on, let's see what she's up to." You grunt as you hop out of the cart.

"Oh, believe me, I'm curious to know what she's doing down here, too." Karla scowls as she hops out.

The two of you make your way into the chamber to look for Ellisa...

>Roll 1d20
>>
Rolled 7 (1d20)

>>3881673
What in the goddamn?
>>
Rolled 3 (1d20)

>>3881673
>>
Rolled 5 (1d20)

>>3881673
>>
Rolled 7 (1d20)

>>3881673
>>
File: Laika 7.png (241 KB, 734x542)
241 KB
241 KB PNG
>>3881673
You and Karla enter the cavernous main chamber together. The structure was gigantic, easily dwarfing the two of you. At the center was the very bottom of the primary space elevator shaft. The elevator usually didn't go all the way down here unless it had to load up something particularly large and heavy.

All around the outer wall the chamber, you could see the telltale craters of missile and bullet impacts, as well as the burnt out husks of a series of large signal booster devices. Each one methodically taken out with precision. If you remember correctly, this was the site of the final battle of the Lighthouse War, where Trigger himself ended the threat of the rogue drones for good.

Sure enough, you could see an abandoned F-15 laying on the concrete, having made a controlled crash landing. It looks like even after all this time, nobody has yet come down here to clean everything up. Though, to be fair, there was a LOT of other things to clean up, first.

"Hey, Mom! Hey Milly!" Ellisa calls out happily.

"Ellisa!' Karla scowls as she jogs over to Ellisa, who pops out from behind a support column. "What the heck are you doing down here!?"

"I just wanted to see the place of the final battle! Where Three Strikes saved the world!" Ellisa says happily. "And I found something cool! Look!"

Ellisa then holds up a small, bright orange case, burnt and dented. However, it was very clear what it was. A black box data recorder, with a faint, scratched Erusean roundel barely visible.

"Ellisa." Karla says very quietly. "Where did you find that."

"It was just laying the on the ground! Like someone dropped it!" Ellisa's head bobs. "Why, is it valuable?"

>You're holding a freaking drone brain!
>It's just a peace of junk.
>Other
>>
File: 1488827031406.jpg (95 KB, 882x994)
95 KB
95 KB JPG
>>3881691
>>You're holding a freaking drone brain!

>mfw the AI flight recorder with its own and Trigger's flight data is still intact
>>
>>3881691
>>You're holding a freaking drone brain!
Horey shiet
>>
>>3881691
>You're holding a freaking drone brain!
>>
>>3881691
>>You're holding a freaking drone brain!
>>
>>3881691
>You're holding a freaking drone brain!
>>
>>3881691
>>You're holding a freaking drone brain!
>>
>>3881692
I say we destroy it. No telling what would happen if it ever gets connected to a live network.
>>
File: 48798261_p3_master1200.jpg (139 KB, 516x406)
139 KB
139 KB JPG
>>3881691
"You're holding a freaking drone brain!" You blurt out.

"Really?" Ellisa gasps as she glances at the box. " Cool! What if I plug it into my laptop? Will it get a mind of its own?"

"Ellisa, that's not funny." Karla says grimly. "You're holding a box that should not be opened. Ever."

"Huh?" Ellisa blinks, a bit confused.

"Drone data is dangerous, Ellisa. We don't know what's stored in that box." Karla explains carefully as she slowly steps forward. "It could just be flight data, but it might also be the actual mind of that drone. Connecting it to anything might give it a chance to copy itself."

"Really?" Ellisa frowns as Karla gently takes the box out of her hands.

"Don't get me wrong, you did a good job finding it." Karla smiles as she pats Ellisa on the head. "But we can't just do whatever we want with it."

"But if that drone's mind is still in there, maybe we can ask it to be friends?" Ellisa asks in that innocent way only children could manage.

"Ellisa..." Karla sighs.

>We need to destroy it. It's too dangerous to keep around.
>We'll keep it between us. Nobody else needs to know.
>We should turn this in to the IUN. They'll know what to do with it.
>Other
>>
>>3881715
>>We need to destroy it. It's too dangerous to keep around.

I feel that Grunder would love to get their hands on this to mass produce an army of drone aces.
>>
>>3881715
>We need to destroy it. It's too dangerous to keep around.
>>
>>3881715
>>We should turn this in to the IUN. They'll know what to do with it.
>>
>>3881715
>We need to destroy it. It's too dangerous to keep around.
>>
>>3881715
>We'll keep it between us. Nobody else needs to know.

Nothing like a bargaining chip.
>>
>>3881715
>We need to destroy it. It's too dangerous to keep around.
Fuck brownie points, we'll be in deep shit if any major power grabs hold of it.
>>
>>3881715
>>We need to destroy it. It's too dangerous to keep around.
We're still 20 years away from Electrosphere and I for one would rather keep it that way than it happening earlier, if keep it from happening at all.
>>
>>3881715
>>We'll keep it between us. Nobody else needs to know.
Why destroy it when we can make use of it?!
>>
>>3881715
>>We need to destroy it. It's too dangerous to keep around.
>>
File: Karla 21.jpg (696 KB, 1148x2000)
696 KB
696 KB JPG
>>3881715
"We need to destroy it." You shake your head. "It's too dangerous to keep around."

"But-" Ellisa protests.

"No, Milly is right. We can't let this thing leave this chamber." Karla says in a resigned tone as she opens the box, revealing the hard drive within. "I'm sorry Ellisa, but this has to be done."

"No don't!' Ellisa yelps, but it's too late.

>Let Karla destroy the hard drive.
>You should take the flak and destroy it yourself.
>Other
>>
>>3881740
>>You should take the flak and destroy it yourself.
>>
>>3881740
>>You should take the flak and destroy it yourself.
>>
>>3881740
>You should take the flak and destroy it yourself.

One of us probably has to ask why she wants to be friends with an A.I. after this.
>>
>>3881740
>You should take the flak and destroy it yourself.
>>
>>3881740
>>Other
Make Elisa promise to never connect it to the internet if she wants to keep it.

Cmon guys!
>>
>>3881741
>>3881742
>>3881743
>>3881744
Why not let Elisa try to make friends with it first? She could actually make it non-hostile, and this feels like wasting an opportunity. Imagine having friendly A.I as an ally.
>>
>>3881747
>>3881746
If we decided to keep it, she's probably going to be on everyone's hit list if anyone were to find out she has the super special A.I.

Last thing we need is for some Black Ops group kidnapping her.
>>
>>3881740
>Other

We need to impress on the little girl just how significant finding and/or holding on to this thing is.The state of the world and the implications etc. etc. Then>You should take the flak and destroy it yourself.
>>
File: Laika angry.jpg (654 KB, 1041x1200)
654 KB
654 KB JPG
>>3881740
Before anybody else can react, you decide to take the heat as you snatch the hard drive out of Karla's hands, drop it to the ground, and apply your boot to it. There's a loud CRUNCH as the hard drive is crushed to pieces.

"Milly, you big MEANIE!" Ellisa shouts as she throws a tantrum. "You killed it!

"It had to be done, Ellisa." You sigh as Karla quickly scoops up the girl in her arms.

"Maaaaybe it's best we go back separately." Karla suggests. "We need to get both carts back, anyways."

Yeah, seemed like Karla already caught on that riding together with Ellisa may cause issues.

>Sounds like a plan.
>It's gonna take the both of you to keep a proper eye on Ellisa.
>Other
>>
>>3881752
>Sounds like a plan.
>>
>>3881752
>>Sounds like a plan.
>>
>>3881752
>Sounds like a plan.
>>
>>3881752
>Sounds like a plan.
Drones have no place in the blue Ellisa, that's just how it works.
>>
>>3881752
>>Sounds like a plan.
>>
>>3881752
>>Sounds like a plan.
Hey Merc, think you could tell us later on what would've happened if we let Ellisa keep her new "pet"?
>>
File: Laika in command.jpg (309 KB, 1000x1250)
309 KB
309 KB JPG
>>3881752
"Sounds like a plan." You sigh as you make your way over to the cart that Ellisa had commandeered. "Ellisa, just to make sure you know, but drones have no place in the sky. They're cold and inhuman."

Ellisa doesn't answer you as Karla carries her off. Guess you were on her shitlist for the time being.

As you drive back to the surface with the cart, you begin wonder if you should tell anyone else about what had happened here.

>Bandit. He can be trusted.
>Princess Cossette. She has a right to know what was beneath her feet.
>Nobody else needs to know.
>Other
>>
>>3881769
>>Nobody else needs to know.
>>
>>3881769
>Bandit. He can be trusted.
>>
>>3881769
>>Nobody else needs to know.
What's the point when it's already broken...
>>
>>3881769
>Nobody else needs to know.
>>
>>3881769
>>Princess Cossette. She has a right to know what was beneath her feet.
>>
>>3881769
>Nobody else needs to know.
That was way too sad man, I feel like the AI could be cool.
Rolling if the AI will be evil.
>>
>>3881769
>Bandit. He can be trusted.
>>
>>3881769
>>Bandit. He can be trusted.
>>
Rolled 6 (1d10)

>>3881777
Fucked up, hang on...
>>
>>3881769
>Nobody else needs to know.
>>
>>3881769
>>Nobody else needs to know.
>>
Ah crap, we could've totally made a sword out of the shot down Raven!
>>
File: Karla 68.jpg (58 KB, 696x836)
58 KB
58 KB JPG
>>3881769
Nobody else needed to know what had happened in the depths below the Lighthouse. Just the mere knowledge of what had happened was dangerous, even if the drone data was already destroyed. Who could say others wouldn't come and try to find more of it?

By the time you return to the surface, it's already well past dark. Karla goes on to put Ellisa to bed, so you don't have a chance to link up with her. Ellisa, of course, is in no mood to see you right now.

So you hitch a ride back to the base to prepare for your departure tomorrow.

>You should try getting into contact with the squadron.
>Better focus on getting rest.
>Other
>>
>>3881787
>Go find Grun in the bar.
>>
>>3881787
backing >>3881789
>Go find Grun in the bar.
>>
>>3881787
>You should try getting into contact with the squadron.
>>
>>3881787
>You should try getting into contact with the squadron.

God only knows what they're all up to.
>>
>>3881787
>You should try getting into contact with the squadron.
>>
>>3881787
>>You should try getting into contact with the squadron.
>>
>>3881787
>>You should try getting into contact with the squadron.
>>
>>3881787
>>You should try getting into contact with the squadron.

>>3881792
>inb4 Vicky is now the hotshot main character she deserves to be with Milly out of the way, and pulling off all sorts of crazy stunts.
>>
File: 61321223_p0.png (1.96 MB, 1200x968)
1.96 MB
1.96 MB PNG
Rolled 1 (1d3)

>>3881787
...
>>
File: Bandit.png (192 KB, 530x874)
192 KB
192 KB PNG
>>3881798
The moment you get back to base, you get your phone and dial up Bandit's number. Given the time zone difference between the opposite ends of the Usean continent, the only one out of your squadron you were sure to be awake would be Bandit. You weren't totally sure if he was human, after all.

"Milly." Bandit answers, still calm as ever, as if he wasn't even surprised you'd call now of all times. "I hope you had a nice leave?"

"More or less." You respond. "I was just calling in to see what's been going on with the squadron while I've been gone."

"Just a few patrols and raids, so far." Bandit replies. "These Osean penal pilots are desperate and resourceful, which is a rather dangerous combination."

"And what about Vicky and Misono? How are they doing?" You wonder.

"They're both holding their own. Eager to see your return." Bandit replies, just as frustratingly simple and blunt as ever. "They've certainly been racking up the kills in your absence. You'll have your work cut out for you when you get back."

"Heh, I'm sure Vicky's become a proper monster now, huh?" You chuckle.

"She's certainly been stepping up." Bandit agrees. "She's still taking that last engagement with e Raven pretty hard, so she's working on improving."

"That's great to hear." You grin. "Anyways, I hope we meet soon. There's a buncha stuff I gotta tell you in person."

"I'm sure you do." Bandit says coolly. "You know the plan to for us to link up over Usea, correct?"

"Yeah, Karla already told me." You grin in anticipation. "Don't worry, I know what's up."

"Good. Get some rest and be prepared, then." Bandit says before hanging up.

Jeez didn't even wait for you to say goodbye.

Oh well, Bandit was gonna be Bandit. Better follow his advice this time an get some rest...

>And that's it for tonight! As always, next thread will be on Friday, so don't miss it!
>>
>>3881803
See you next week, boss.
>>
>>3881803
Thanks for running Merc!
>>
>>3881803
Thanks for running, Merc!
>>
FUCK
I fall asleep and wake up to see we could have gotten a pet Wardrone?
God damnit.
>>
>>3881843
I mean, there's always the hope that the A.I. co-pilot in the Wyvern is still salvageable. Although we may need a special pilot helmet so it can properly analyze Milly's brain.
>>
if the scrap queen can repair a smashed X-02s, could she repair the 2 wrecks of the Ravens at the bottom of the space elevator?
>>
>>3883583

Probably, so long as the full Raven fuselages haven't been blown to bits and scattered across the surrounding ocean floor.

At the very best, we have the ADF-11 drone wreck at the transmission tower we could possible salvage for a pulse laser drone provided we give it a new brain, or set up a remote control cockpit somewhere.
>>
>>3884949
>provided we give it a new brain
too late
>>
>>3885007
>>3884949
We can still make a badass sword from the wreckage if that's any consolation.
>>
File: Red 24.png (640 KB, 707x1000)
640 KB
640 KB PNG
>>3881803
You had to admit, flying alone over Usea was not exactly an ideal situation for you. The continent's security situation was still in flux, and there was no telling if you'd be jumped by aerial pirates, rogue drones, or Eruseans looking to flex some rapidly dwindling muscle. Unfortunately, Grun Squadron was in no position to provide any escort or backup, being responsible for guiding the relief convoy back to Belka, now carrying Belkan refugees who wanted to be repatriated back to the fatherland.

Plus having a squadron of Belkan fighters flying around so close to Erusea's conflict zones was not exactly the best idea.

Meanwhile, Karla had advised you to fly low to avoid being picked up by radar. The last thing you needed was the Eruseans tracking your movements, even if they didn't necessarily know it was you.

Then again, flying low put you at a disadvantage if your were spotted by aerial foes. They'd start out with a huge altitude advantage over you...

>Go low to avoid detection.
>Go high so you can see who's coming for you.
>Other
>>
>>3889538
>Go low to avoid detection.
>>
>>3889538
>>Go high so you can see who's coming for you.
>>
>>3889538
>>Go low to avoid detection.
>>
>>3889538
>>Go low to avoid detection.
Karla's not stupid ffs.
>>
>>3889538
>Go low to avoid detection.
>>
>>3889538
>Go low to avoid detection.

Remember to use your IMAGINATION for SALVATION.
>>
>>3889547
My reasoning was that we are prbly gonna roll a skill test. Assuming we get caught and detected us being low is gonna be a huge disadvantage. At least if we get detected high up we'll be on even terms.

Maybe I'm just being pessimistic i dunno. Prbly should have more faith in the dice.
>>
>>3889538
>>Go low to avoid detection.

This is a sneaking mission Red!
>>
>>3889538
>>Go low to avoid detection.
>>
>>3889563
So who's looking forward to stopping Torres from nuking the Capital of Osea?
>>
File: 54631834_p10_master1200.jpg (357 KB, 1000x697)
357 KB
357 KB JPG
Rolled 10 (1d10)

>>3889538
...
>>
>>3889607
good?
>>
>>3889607
Oh well.
Getting started early i see.
Strap in lads.
>>
File: Red 23.jpg (134 KB, 941x1271)
134 KB
134 KB JPG
>>3889607
You decide to follow Karla's advice and fly low and fast, your Berkut zipping along barely a few hundred meters above the ground. Fortunately, there where too many hills or mountains where you were, so you could fly pretty straight and level most of the way.

You don't encounter any sort of opposition, besides the occasional passing airliner which doesn't even notice your presence. Soon enough, your radar pings with a trio of contacts, all broadcasting the familiar Raven Squadron IFF signals.

"Red!" Vicky says happily. "Ohmygosh, did you get another new plane already!??!"

"A Berkut. Interesting." Bandit says simply. "Looks like you impressed somebody over there."

"What a marvelous machine!" Misono gasps. "I'm rather jealous!"

"Heh, it's good to see you all too." You laugh. "So, I guess you already know what's going down?"

"Flying into Shilage to steal the wreckage of plane is way too reckless!" Vicky wails. "And it's not even an officially sanctioned IUN mission! This is so crazy!"

"You could always turn around. We're not forcing you to come along." Misono advises.

"B-but I can't just leave you all to to do this without me!" Vicky stammers.

>Awww, so you really do love us!
>You're sounding more and more like a proper ace!
>You don't have to force yourself.
>Other
>>
>>3889619
>>Awww, so you really do love us!
Adorable
>>
>>3889619
>You're sounding more and more like a proper ace

Maybe we can get Ellisa a souvenir as well to make up for the A.I.?
>>
>>3889619
>You're sounding more and more like a proper ace!
>>
>>3889619
>You're sounding more and more like a proper ace!
>>
>>3889619
>Awww, so you really do love us!
>>
>>3889626
We can never replace her first cyber pet. NEVER.
>>
>>3889619
>>You're sounding more and more like a proper ace!
>>
>>3889619
>>You're sounding more and more like a proper ace!

Can't wait to see if Vicky decides to upgrade to her home country's domestic planes.
>>
>>3889626
I feel like the minute we go shopping is the minute we get kidnapped by Silagian terrorists or Erusean Paramilitaries.

Also what the other anon said here>>3889637
>>
>>3889637

Unless Mihaly's cyber co-pilot somehow survived the crash. I think it would be a much safer alternative since all it really did was monitor the pilot's body.
>>
File: 52713472_p0_master1200.jpg (388 KB, 1200x511)
388 KB
388 KB JPG
>>3889619
"You're sounding more and more like a proper ace!" You laugh. "Maybe you'll be the leading ace of this squadron!"

"W-w-w-what?! I could never do that!" Vickly gasps. "I don't think I could handle all that attention!"

"Heh, keep telling yourself that, Swordfish!" You respond happily.

"All right everyone, let's focus." Bandit's calm, measured voice interjects. "Now that we've linked up, we're supposed to rendezvous with the Gullinbursti just outside of Shilage's border. We may have to prepare for some hostilities."

"What?" You blink. "What are we expecting?"

"The reason why Shilage hired WCS in the first place was to break Erusea's aerial blockade of their country." Bandit explains. "There's a number of Usean countries willing to support their bid for independence, under the table, of course."

>You're right, sounds like something we should stay out of.
>Hey, but providing some assistance may make them like us more!
>Other
>>
>>3889675
>Hey, but providing some assistance may make them like us more!
>>
>>3889675
>You're right, sounds like something we should stay out of.

Mercenary work stays with the Mercenaries. We came for the wreck. Not to take blood money. We've no quarrel with either side
>>
>>3889675
>Hey, but providing some assistance may make them like us more!
>>
>>3889675
>>You're right, sounds like something we should stay out of.
>>
>>3889675
>You're right, sounds like something we should stay out of.
>>
>>3889675
>You're right, sounds like something we should stay out of.
>>
>>3889675
>>You're right, sounds like something we should stay out of.
>>
>>3889675
>>You're right, sounds like something we should stay out of.
>>Other
I wonder what deals Shilage had to cut with the Useans in order for them to do that.
>>
>>3889675
>>Hey, but providing some assistance may make them like us more!
>>
File: Gyges.jpg (302 KB, 1280x720)
302 KB
302 KB JPG
>>3889675
"You're right." You say in agreement. "Sounds like something we should stay out of."

"Of course." Bandit responds. "All right, if you see any sort of engagement, aerial or otherwise, do your best to ignore it. Only fire if you're directly challenged."

"Roger!' Vicky affirms.

"Roger." Misono also affirms.

As your squadron continues on their way, your radar begins picking up contacts at the very edge of your range. There were at least a dozen contacts, all maneuvering quickly and wildly. The telltale signs of a dogfight. It didn't take too long for the signs of the battle to be visible, the distant streaks of jet trails, missile contrails, and flashes of explosions peppering the distant sky.

"Looks like they've already started work." Bandit observes. "We should be coming up on the Gullinbursti shortly."

Sure enough, you can see the aerial warship circling lazily in the air, keeping its distance from the primary fighting.

"Hey, Ravens! Good to see you finally here!" Sam's familiar voice says cheerfully. "Come on, come on! Best get landed before someone gets a visual on you!"

Your squadron quickly performs landing procedures, and you notice that the hangar deck was eerily empty. Looked like WCS had committed the bulk of its forces on this operation.

"All right, welcome back, everyone!" Sam says cheerfully after you all dismount your planes. "Karla already gave me the lowdown, so I'll be helping smuggle you all into Shilage!"

"Smuggle?" Misono frowns. "Can't we just fly in?"

"Not with IUN tagged planes! Otherwise you'd cause a huge international incident!" Sam tuts. "I got a few loaner F-16s. Not exactly up to par with what you've got, but they have clean registries and will read as WCS birds so Erusea will be none the wiser!"

"What?" You pause. "Can't we just like, swap out our IFFs and repaint our planes or something?"

"Well, we could, but that would take time." Sam shrugs. "We'd need at least to day to get everything spruced up, and who knows what conditions will be like then! At least now, we pushed the Eruseans back so there's a clear air corridor!"

Ugh, if you wanted to go now, you guess you could settle for F-16s as temporary rides. Then it's just in and out, hopefully. However, if something went wrong or if the extraction process dragged on, you'd be stuck with starkly inferior planes...

>Head out now with the F-16s.
>Wait for your planes to get "scrubbed".
>Other
>>
>>3889734
>>Head out now with the F-16s.
>>
>>3889734
>Head out now with the F-16s.
>>
>>3889734
>Head out now with the F-16s.
>>
>>3889734

>Head out now with the F-16s.


Yeh waiting would be dumb. We need a window.
>>
>>3889734
>>Head out now with the F-16s.
I just played ACX, pretty fun game.
>>
>>3889734
>>Head out now with the F-16s.

Nothing like going back to the basics.

https://youtu.be/uJVOP-vYoZA
>>
File: F-16.jpg (1.86 MB, 3842x2655)
1.86 MB
1.86 MB JPG
>>3889734
"Ugh, fine, we'll go with the F-16s." You groan.

"Thanks for going through all this trouble to set this up for us." Bandit nods in appreciation.

"Oh, don't worry about it! Anything for you, Bandit!" Sam laughs. "The planes are already primed and ready to go! Just head out and take care of your business! Don't worry, the Shilage guys already know you're coming!"

"Right." Bandit turns to you all. "Everyone pick and plane and let's move. We've got no time to waste."

And just like that, the four of you board the specially prepared F-16s. You grunt as you examine the controls and the systems. It seemed to be a bog standard F-16C. A solid, if slightly outdated bird, and nowhere near as fancy as the F-16Vs you've faced off against earlier. However, it could hold its own in a fight, and it could dance like your Sukhois, which was nice.

Your squadron then quickly takes off, just as you see a number of cargo planes blowing past, taking advantage of the hole in the Erusean air defense net. Obviously, all of the planes lacked any identifying markings, most likely to hide Shilage's foreign benefactors.

"All right, just follow the convoy in and we'll be fine." Bandit instructs. "There's no hostiles in the vicinity so we should be fine."

"G-good!" Vicky replies.

As you continue on into Shilage proper, you keep an eye on your radar, which was now starting to identify the contacts. You could see Lara and Wolf's planes tearing through the Erusians, while the rest of the WCS planes sort of just hung back to watch. Man, if only you were in proper visual range, it was always such a treat to see Lara dance.

>See if you can contact Lara.
>Better just focus on getting to Shilage.
>Other
>>
>>3889780
>Better just focus on getting to Shilage.
>>
>>3889780
>Better just focus on getting to Shilage.

I'm pretty sure both distracting her in combat and alerting the Eruseans to us at the same time is moronic. Let's not.
Let's try to make this smooth
>>
>>3889780
>>See if you can contact Lara.
>>
>>3889780
>See if you can contact Lara.

Dancing with the Angels.
>>
>>3889780
>Better just focus on getting to Shilage.
>>
>>3889780
>>Better just focus on getting to Shilage.
>>
>>3889780
>>Better just focus on getting to Shilage.
>Nostalgia trip about our time in Karla's old F-16?
>>
File: Shilage_Castle.png (1.78 MB, 1920x1080)
1.78 MB
1.78 MB PNG
>>3889780
You decide to keep pressing to Shilage, ignoring the distant aerial battle despite wanting to keep track of Lara's progress.

"This is a very pretty country..." Vicky marvels as your flight passes over the border.

Well, you couldn't deny that. Below, you could see rolling, green fields and lush forests, dotted with small, idyllic towns and villages. On the horizon, you could see what looked like an honest to god castle set upon a high hill overlooking the land. Everything about this place looked like a medieval kingdom.

"It's so pretty!" Vicky marvels.

"It's shame that they had to weaponize it." Misono sighs.

Sure enough, you could see the castle was lined with AA guns, missile batteries, artillery emplacements, and other markedly more modern defenses. The entire castle had been turned into a veritable fortress. At the foot of the hill it sat on, you could even seen large tunnels dug straight into the rock, forming impenetrable hangars to hide aircraft.

Below, you could see the airstrip was crowded with cargo planes unloading supplies. Planes were practically lined wingtip to wingtip while others circled above waiting for an open slot. The runway was clearly not designed for traffic of this magnitude.

"Clover Squadron, this is Shilage Castle Control, we have a backup runway on the other side of the castle you can land at." A voice buzzes in your radio. "Just circle around and follow our heading in."

"Roger that. Bandit replies simply. Looks like "Clover Squadron" was your cover name for this op.

Once again, your disguised squadron makes a landing at the backup runway, where you could see a squadron of black Su-30SMs parked securely underneath a tunnel.

That's when you see a young pilot that you vaguely recognized. Was he part of that Voslogan delegation back at Harling's memorial? Shit, that felt like ages ago.

"Greetings, Raven Squadron." The pilot nods. "I am the acting leader for Sol Squadron. You can call me Wit."

>Never heard of him.
>Sounds kinda familiar...
>Other
>>
>>3889826
>Never heard of him.
>>
>>3889826
>Never heard of him.
I guess Trigger managed the quick Raven kills.
>>
>>3889826
>>Never heard of him.
>>
>>3889826
>Sounds kinda familiar...

I still think the Raven had something to do with messing up our missiles way back.

I mean, if Grunder can produce a simplified Wyvern design, and stealth missiles, I don't see why they can't hack weapons.
>>
>>3889826
>Sounds kinda familiar...
>>
File: Su-30.jpg (615 KB, 1500x1000)
615 KB
615 KB JPG
>>3889826
Wit? Well, you never heard of him, but you did hear about Sol Squadron. One of the most feared Erusean fighter squadrons during the Lighthouse War, led by none other than Mihaly himself. You wonder if Wit and his squadronmates even knew that Mihaly was still alive.

"Your boss mentioned that you had a special request of us." Wit continues, eying you all warily. "But tell me first. Are you all really mercenaries?"

"What makes you ask that?" Bandit raises an eyebrow.

"Just an instinct." Wit shrugs.

Damn, it was hard to tell if he knew and was just testing you or not.

>We're just your standard mercs.
>We're actually IUN.
>Other
>>
>>3889863
>We're just your standard mercs.
>>
>>3889863
>We're just your standard mercs.

I mean if he knows we are already fucked anyways. He could also be trying to bait a confession. We shouldn't endanger the mission.
>>
>>3889863
>>We're just your standard mercs.

Yep, your regular pirates.
>>
>>3889863
>We're actually IUN.
>But definitely on an unsanctioned mission that the higherups have no idea about so it's okay.
>>
>>3889863
>>We're just your standard mercs.
YUP
>>
File: Wyvern.jpg (119 KB, 750x420)
119 KB
119 KB JPG
>>3889863
"We're just your standard, run of the mill mercs!' You nod and turn to Bandit. "Right, Boss?"

"Correct." Bandit nods and faces Wit. "Will that be a problem?"

"None at all. We're the ones forced to hire you, after all." Wit sighs, as if ashamed. "Now, what is it that you wanted?"

"We heard you got a wrecked X-02S Wyvern lying around somewhere here." You speak up. "Mind if we take it off your hands?"

Wit narrows his eyes, now scrutinizing all of you even further.

"For what reason would you want it?" He asks. "As you say, it's nothing more than a wreck. What use would it be to you?"

"We need the extra firepower." Bandit replies. "We have the expertise needed to fix it, which I doubt you have."

"That is correct." Wit puts a hand up to his chin. "But it's Sol Lead's plane. Even if he isn't here, it doesn't feel right giving it away..."

>I happen to have met Mihaly. He doesn't mind what you do with it.
>Hey, like Bandit said, you don't have any use for it.
>All right, what's your price, then?
>Other
>>
>>3889887
>Hey, like Bandit said, you don't have any use for it.
>Don't worry, I promise we'll use it to shoot down plenty of drones.
>>
>>3889887
>Hey, like Bandit said, you don't have any use for it.


Under no circumstances do we drop that we know Mihaly. That would lead to some heavy questions involving us, him, and the Princess.
>>
>>3889887
>>I happen to have met Mihaly. He doesn't mind what you do with it.
As proof I suggest we repeat to him the advice Mihaly gave us
>>
>>3889887
>Hey, like Bandit said, you don't have any use for it.
>>
>>3889887
>>All right, what's your price, then?
>>
File: Wyvern 2.jpg (816 KB, 1280x720)
816 KB
816 KB JPG
>>3889887
"Hey, like Bandit said, you don't have any use for it." You point out. "Honestly, all it's going to do is take up hangar space."

This causes Wit to pause for a few brief seconds as he continues to stare at your squad, as if trying to get the measure of you all.

"All right, if you want Sol Lead's plane, then you'll have to prove yourselves worthy of it." Wit nods. "The Eruseans are preparing for another assault on the castle. Help us bloody their noses a bit and the wreck is yours."

>Sounds like a deal.
>That price sounds a bit steep.
>Other
>>
>>3889897
>Sounds like a deal.

Not like we can come up with better alternatives.
>>
>>3889897
>Sounds like a deal.
>>
>>3889897

>Sounds like a deal

I'd rather not get involved in someone else's war that we have no stake in, but it's just one skirmish.
We can put on a show at least and minimize the actual killing.

Also if we refuse he's gonna know we are fakes
>>
>>3889897
>>Sounds like a deal.

Let's hope we won't have to force ourselves through some injuries to earn their trust.
>>
>>3889897
>Sounds like a deal.
Fighting Erusean Conservatives is a patriotic duty for all Belkans.
>>
>>3889897
>>Sounds like a deal.

>>3889901
inb4 "Only Mihaly injures himself by flying like that"
>>
>>3889901
Our whole squad is here. I doubt we are gonna have to press ourselves that hard vs some random mooks.
>>
>>3889897
>>Sounds like a deal.
>>
File: Red 17.jpg (427 KB, 1000x1552)
427 KB
427 KB JPG
>>3889897
"Sounds like a deal." You sigh. Guess things weren't going to be so simple. "So what do we have to do?"

"As I said, you just need to blood the Eruseans' noses a bit." Wit repeats. "You can go after their ground forces, goad their fighters to engage you, or you can go after their heavy bombers."

"Bombers?" Bandit frowns.

"The Eruseans brought in a squadron of Tu-160s." Wit scowls. "They've been continually harrying the castle with long range cruise missile attacks, which have taxed our air defense to their limits. We could easily handle them if it was just the bombers, but we also have to deal with the ground forces masses and the fighters providing air cover for them."

"Right, so you just want your numbers bolstered." You nod.

"More fighting? In planes we're not familiar with?" Vicky bites her lip.

"It will be fine!" Misono assures her, slapping her on the back.

>Go for the bombers.
>Lure out the fighters.
>Hit the ground forces.
>Other
>>
>>3889918
>Lure out the fighters.
>>
>>3889918
>>Go for the bombers.
since we're not using our personal planes I'd rather not try fighting fighters this time.
>>
>>3889918
>Go for the bombers.
>>
>>3889918
>>Go for the bombers.
>>
>>3889918
>Lure out the fighters.
>>
>>3889918
>Go for the bombers.
>>
File: Tu-160.jpg (45 KB, 620x315)
45 KB
45 KB JPG
>>3889918
"I guess we can go for the bombers?" You shrug.

"That's probably the most efficient mission we can perform with the planes we have." Bandit nods. "Do you have a plan to take down those bombers?"

"The only two ways to intercept them are when they go on an attack run, or try to hit them while they are at their base." Wit explains. "Intercepting them will be difficult, due to their sheer speed, and they're sure to have escorts, as well."

"And if we hit them at their base?" Misono asks.

"The only way to guarantee you'll catch them on the ground is a night attack." Wit gives you all a hard stare. "I don't think I have to explain to you how that will inhibit everybody's visibility. You'll also have to penetrate into Erusean territory as well."

>Let's try to intercept the bombers.
>We'll hit their base.
>Other
>>
>>3889938
>Let's try to intercept the bombers.

We are already doing an awful lot more than we came here for. Let's not dig ourselves a deeper hole than we have to.
>>
>>3889938
>Let's try to intercept the bombers.
>>
>>3889938
>Let's try to intercept the bombers.
>>
File: Red 19.png (915 KB, 946x1600)
915 KB
915 KB PNG
>>3889938
"Let's intercept the bombers, then." You suggest. "Would kinda suck having to attack into Erusea with the planes we have."

"That's a good point." Bandit nods with agreement. "So we're agreed then, Wit? We down the bombers, you give us the Wyvern wreck."

"You have my word." Wit nods.

"Then it's a deal." Bandit shakes Wit's hand to seal it. "When will the bombers attack next?"

"Usually at dawn, to try and catch us off guard." Wit explains. "That should give you some time to rest. We do have some accommodation in the castle that we can offer you."

>Let's all get some rest.
>We should do rotating patrol, just in case.
>Other
>>
>>3889952
>We should do rotating patrol, just in case.
>>
>>3889952
>We should do rotating patrol, just in case.
>>
File: 1417253455471.jpg (281 KB, 2100x1313)
281 KB
281 KB JPG
>>3889952
Hmmmm, looks like a slow night, so we'll pause things here and continue things on Saturday! See youthen!
>>
>>3889952
>Let's all get some rest.

>>3889967
Thanks for running Merc!
>>
>>3889952
>Let's all get some rest.

Have Milly's knight fantasy play out.
>>
File: Forbidden Love.jpg (159 KB, 598x545)
159 KB
159 KB JPG
>>3889952
>>We should do rotating patrol, just in case.

>>3889980
Will Vicky be the Princess?
>>
>>3889981
Hell no.

Bandit will.
>>
>>3889981
>>3890021

We have to do an Utena pose for photoshoots.
>>
>>3890213
Maybe Misono could get us a sword if we asked?
>>
I'm really glad we took the time to make our planes as bland and unremarkable as possible. If we ever need help from the Eruseans in the future they'll have no idea we got drafted into this.
>>
File: 1549738815769.png (152 KB, 302x270)
152 KB
152 KB PNG
What is Bandit's actual name?

>inb4 Kupchenko
>>
File: Su-33.jpg (355 KB, 1200x800)
355 KB
355 KB JPG
>>3889952
In the end, you had decided to perform rotating patrols. While the Eruseans typically did their bombing runs during the day, night raids were still occasionally done as well. So it would be flights of two switching off. Meanwhile, Sol Squadron would focus on maintaining air superiority while WCS would pound the Erusean ground forces with their air support assets.

So, all in all, everything was covered. At least for now.

For these patrols, you were paired up with...

>Bandit
>Vicky
>Misono
>>
>>3891635
>Vicky
>>
>>3891635
>>Vicky
>>
>>3891635
>Misono
>>
>>3891635
>Misono

Let's use the jap for once
>>
>>3891635
>Bandit
>>
>>3891635
>Vicky
>>
>>3891635
>>Misono
>>
>>3891635
>Misono
>>
File: Misono 21.jpg (42 KB, 350x591)
42 KB
42 KB JPG
>>3891635
For this op, you were paired with Misono. Intercepting bombers required a special type of aggression, and Bandit was banking on the fact that both you and Misono were knife fighters would help increase your combat efficiency.

As for which rotation you were given, though...

>Night time. It's harder to see the bombers but easier to get the jump on them if you find them first.
>Day time. You can see the bombers coming from the distance, but you'd have to sprint to catch up to them.
>>
>>3891718
>>Night time. It's harder to see the bombers but easier to get the jump on them if you find them first.
>>
>>3891718
>>Night time. It's harder to see the bombers but easier to get the jump on them if you find them first.

Wildesau time
>>
>>3891718
>Day time. You can see the bombers coming from the distance, but you'd have to sprint to catch up to them.
>>
>>3891718
>>Night time. It's harder to see the bombers but easier to get the jump on them if you find them first.
knife fighters would do best at night with closer engagement ranges.
>>
>>3891718
>>Night time. It's harder to see the bombers but easier to get the jump on them if you find them first.
>>
>>3891718
>>Night time. It's harder to see the bombers but easier to get the jump on them if you find them first.
>>
File: Misono.png (422 KB, 654x973)
422 KB
422 KB PNG
>>3891718
You and Misono were chosen for the night patrol, mostly since Vicky didn't have a lot of experience in night flying and Misono was more willing to brave the darkness. You had to respect her warrior spirit, that was for sure.

For you, you've done a few training exercises at night, and never did an actual full night op yourself. However, you were still taught by the best.

What also helped was the intelligence Sol Squadron provided. Not only were they extremely diligent in observing enemy movements, but they were formerly Erusean pilots themselves, so they knew all of the inner workings of Erusean aerial tactics.

In situations where air superiority was no guaranteed, Erusean bomber units typically adopted high speed, low altitude penetration mission, to minimize the chances of being detected by early warning radar. This is typically why they avoided night operations due to the risk of crashing, but the lower visibility was sometimes an acceptable tradeoff.

Well, that was all assuming the bombers would actually come out. Right now, you and Misono were idling at high altitude, waiting for any activity. Back at Shilage, the castle and surrounding town were pitch black, its lights either turned off or covered to make it harder for the bombers to pick out their targets.

Now was just the question of how to conduct your patrol. You could stick near Shilage Castle itself. Since the castle was the target, the bombers would have to expose themselves to attack it. However, that gave you an extremely short window to intercept them before they could fire their missiles.

Alternatively, you could range out farther from the castle in hopes you could catch the bombers in transit. However, in the darkness, there was the legitimate risk that the bombers could slip past you without you noticing. You didn't know their exact approach vector, after all.

>Stick near the castle.
>Range out farther from the castle.
>Other
>>
>>3891836
>>Other
>Misono stays near castle
>we range out
>>
>>3891836
>Range out farther from the castle.
>>
>>3891836
>Range out farther from the castle.
>>
>>3891836
>>Range out farther from the castle.
>>
>>3891836
>Range out farther from the castle.
>>
>>3891836
>>Range out farther from the castle.
>>
File: 1494987896864.jpg (258 KB, 1003x768)
258 KB
258 KB JPG
>>3891836
"Knives, let's move a little farther out." You call out to Misono. "I don't feel comfortable letting the bombers anywhere near attack range."

"Of course!" Misono responds as her F-16 falls in formation to your left. You could only see the vague outline of her plane against the night sky. Both of you had turned off your running lights to lower visibility.

However, coming this far out, there were two possible routes any potential Erusean bomber force would take.

To the west was a wide flat plain that was mostly farmland. It lay directly between Shilage Castle and the Erusean bomber base, making it the fastest and most direct route. The level ground also meant the bombers didn't need to maneuver, so they could exploit their high top speed to their fullest. Then again, it was also the most predictable route, and any bomber caught in the open would be extremely vulnerable to interceptors.

To the east was small mountain range. Going through it meant taking a longer, more circuitous route, but the mountains provided excellent cover against radar. However, the uneven terrain meant you would need extremely ballsy pilots to fly through them, especially at night. It was a dangerous gamble.

So which way were they going to head...?

>Patrol the western plains.
>Patrol the eastern mountains.
>Split up to patrol both areas.
>Other
>>
>>3891896
>Patrol the western plains.
>>
>>3891896
>Patrol the eastern mountains.
expect the unexpected
>>
>>3891896
>>Patrol the eastern mountains.

If Trigger managed to pull that off...
>>
>>3891896
>>Split up to patrol both areas.
one for each. But I honestly expect them to use mountains since it's even harder to detect.
>>
>>3891896
>plit up to patrol both areas.
>>
>>3891896
>Split up to patrol both areas.
I agree with this yes.
>>
File: Misono 14.jpg (271 KB, 770x889)
271 KB
271 KB JPG
>>3891896
"All right, Knives, let's spit up." You decide. "One of us takes the plains while the other handles the mountains."

"Understood." Misono affirms. "Which ones do we take?"

>You take the plains and Misono takes the mountains.
>You take the mountains and Misono takes the plains.
>>
Splitting up in the face of the enemy is a classic mistake. If they have an escort we wont be able to support Misono or vice versa
>>
>>3891951
>>You take the mountains and Misono takes the plains.
>>
>>3891951
>You take the mountains and Misono takes the plains.
>>
>>3891951
>>You take the plains and Misono takes the mountains.
>>
>>3891951
>You take the mountains and Misono takes the plains.
>>
File: F-16v 2.jpg (187 KB, 1200x688)
187 KB
187 KB JPG
Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>3891951
"All right, Knives, you take the plains. I'll handle the mountains." You order. "If you see anything, give me a holler!"

"And I expect you to do the same!" Misono replies as you see the faint outline of her F-16 bank away.

You bank your F-16 towards the mountain range, the massive rock formations barely visible against night sky and horizon. Finding anything in this was going to be a challenge...

>Roll 1d10 (ID test 5-1)
>>
Rolled 2 (1d10)

>>3892026
>>
Rolled 7 (1d10)

>>3892026
Here's for some Salvation.
>>
Rolled 10 (1d10)

>>3892026
>>
File: 1549324944536.jpg (10 KB, 234x281)
10 KB
10 KB JPG
>>3892034
>>
>>3892034
A Ten roll to end a million lives...
>>
>>3892034
There's always one isn't there
>>
File: Misono 16.jpg (459 KB, 750x1334)
459 KB
459 KB JPG
Rolled 7 (1d10)

>>3892026
>>
File: Red 16.png (400 KB, 600x900)
400 KB
400 KB PNG
>>3892053
Unfortunately, you can't pick out any movement within the shadowed mountains. This wasn't good. There were too many ridges, peaks, and canyons that were blocking your line of sight. Your visibility was damn near zero.

"Knives, do you see anything on your end?" You ask.

"Negative, Red. I regretfully cannot see much!' Misono replies sadly.

You glance at your radar. You hadn't turned it on yet since there was the risk it would give away your presence and spook the bombers. However, from your higher altitude, you may be able to detect the movement of the bombers from above, where ground clutter wasn't as intrusive.

Still, you'd pretty much be giving way that you were there, but the alternative was let them reveal themselves when they perform their bombing run and hit them while they're making their escape.

>Fire up your radar to find the bombers.
>Wait to ambush them on the return trip.
>Other
>>
>>3892057
>Fire up your radar to find the bombers.

Something tells me letting them bomb their target is dumb. Let's just get this done and get our plane.
>>
>>3892057
>Fire up your radar to find the bombers.
>>
>>3892057
>>Fire up your radar to find the bombers.
>>
>>3892057
>>Fire up your radar to find the bombers.
Time to be bait
>>
>>3892057
>Fire up your radar to find the bombers.
>>
File: F-15.jpg (154 KB, 927x950)
154 KB
154 KB JPG
>>3892057
Damn, well screw it! You couldn't risk missing these bombers, so you power up your radar, your sensor screen flicking on.

Almost immediately, your radar picks up six contacts below you, have already cleared the mountains and vectoring in towards Shilage. Your radar immediately tags the contacts as four Tu-160s and a pair of F-15s. Not many escorts, but they weren't exactly pushovers, either. Almost immediately, though, you see the F-15s peel off and vector in towards you, no doubt having been cued by your active radar.

"Knives! I spotted the bombers!" You call out. "They've just cleared the mountains and are heading for the castle!"

"Understood!' Misono responds. "Do you need help with the escorts?"

>Have Misono jump the escorts while they go after you.
>Drag the escorts away so Misono can hit the bombers.
>Other
>>
>>3892088
>>Have Misono jump the escorts while they go after you.

Time to put our Falcon through its paces.
>>
>>3892088
>Drag the escorts away so Misono can hit the bombers.
>>
>>3892088
>Drag the escorts away so Misono can hit the bombers
>>
>>3892088
>>Drag the escorts away so Misono can hit the bombers.

Remember your time in the Falcon, Milly!
>>
>>3892088
>Drag the escorts away so Misono can hit the bombers.
>>
>>3892088
>Drag the escorts away so Misono can hit the bombers.

So any guesses as to what happened to Karla's Phantom?
>>
>>3892097
I'm assuming that at some point it's gonna wind up in a museum.

inb4 Milly ends up flying it like Karla did Pixy's Eagle in the future.
>>
Hey something else just occurred to me. The Falcon has a reclined seat to reduce G-forces on the pilot, right?

Does that mean if we do Mihaly's thing, we take less damage if we're in the Falcon?
>>
File: F-15 2.jpg (89 KB, 1039x759)
89 KB
89 KB JPG
>>3892088
"Knives, I'm gonna drag these assholes away so you can grab the bombers!" You yell.

"Will you-"

"I'll be all right!" You assure her. "Just go get 'em!"

"Understood! I'll return to aid you as soon as I can!" Misono promises as her F-16 continues after the bombers.

"Just one fighter. F-16. Doesn't look like a Sol." You hear a voice buzz over the radio. Possibly one of the F-15 pilots.

"Probably one of those mercenary dogs, then. Show no mercy." Another voice replies.

Heh, these guys were gonna be in for a rude surprise. Those F-15s were bigger and faster than your F-16, but you were way more nimble and could out turn them in a knife fight. However, it was a two on one, which wasn't exactly the most ideal situation.

>Tangle with the F-15s.
>Try to distract and break them up by luring them through the mountains.
>Other
>>
>>3892121
>Tangle with the F-15s.
Fly like an angel with the wrath of a demon.
>>
>>3892121
>Tangle with the F-15s.
If we try to bait them too hard they'll go back to the bombers.
>>
>>3892121
>Try to distract and break them up by luring them through the mountains.
>>
>>3892121
>Tangle with the F-15s.
>>
>>3892121
>>Tangle with the F-15s.

>"Mercenary"

Oh you wish buddy
>>
>>3892121
>>Try to distract and break them up by luring them through the mountains.
if direct combat is no good due to differing specs, but we can still out-maneuver, then it's time to use the terrain to our advantage and lead them through obstacles by being more nimble.
>>
>>3892121
>>Tangle with the F-15s.
>>
>>3892122
>>3892123
>>3892127
>>3892128
>>3892131

guys no dammit this is not a good time to try to fight them head-on.
>>
>>3892132
I'm with the guy above who pointed out that trying too hard to bait them may tip them off to something being squirrelly
>>
>>3892121
>>Try to distract and break them up by luring them through the mountains.
>>
>>3892132
And somehow trying to lure them is? We can't take the risk of one of them trying to break off to protect the bombers, at worst the tangling allows us to buy time.
>>
File: Spoiler Image (5 KB, 128x115)
5 KB
5 KB JPG
>>3892132
It's always a good time to fight head on.
>>
>>3892121
>>Tangle with the F-15s.
>>
>>3892138
LANCE CHARGE
>>
File: Milly 7.png (14 KB, 183x331)
14 KB
14 KB PNG
>>3892121
Well, it's not like you weren't going to tangle with them. You weren't about to show your back to speedsters like F-15s, after all!

The F-15s were still approaching you at high speed head on. They haven't launched missiles yet, though. They probably figured they wouldn't lock on fast enough in a head on pass.

You could commit to the head on attack and gun run them, but that similarly left you vulnerable to gun attack. Or you could use your built up speed to blow past them and try to force the engagement into a turning fight, where you would have the advantage.

>Go for the gun run!
>Try to force them into a turning fight.
>Other
>>
>>3892163
>Go for the gun run!
also: >try to knife them
>>
>>3892163
>Try to force them into a turning fight.
>>
>>3892163
>Try to force them into a turning fight.

Fly like a Red Comet
>>
>>3892163
>>Try to force them into a turning fight.
>>
>>3892163
>Try to force them into a turning fight.
>>
>>3892163
>Try to force them into a turning fight.
>>
>>3892163
>>Go for the gun run!
>>
File: F-16v.jpg (53 KB, 624x351)
53 KB
53 KB JPG
Rolled 7, 10 = 17 (2d10)

>>3892163
You push your throttle, increasing your speed to spoil any attempt to get a bead on your for guns and you blast right between the two F-15s. You immediately kick your flaps to perform a high-G turn, getting your nose back on the F-15s and forcing them to react.

>Roll 1d10 (ACM test 6)
>>
Rolled 10 (1d10)

>>3892196
>>
Rolled 8 (1d10)

>>3892196
>>
Rolled 5 (1d10)

>>3892196
>>
Rolled 2 (1d10)

>>3892196
>>
File: 86f.jpg (12 KB, 500x258)
12 KB
12 KB JPG
>>3892201
o fuck
>>
Rolled 10 (1d10)

>>3892196
>>
>>3892201
Time to activate the skill I suppose?
>>
>>3892201
We have the skill
>>
File: 002557.jpg (30 KB, 800x450)
30 KB
30 KB JPG
>>3892196
Uh oooooooh.

So it looks like you couldn't pull off this ACM maneuver!

Would you like to have Milly PUSH THE LIMIT for an auto success? Remember there are adverse effects!

>Y
>N
>>
>>3892220
>N
The F-15's didn't do that well either.
>>
>>3892220
>>N
>>
>>3892220
>N
>>
>>3892220
>Y
>>
>>3892220
>>N
>>
File: larry.jpg (36 KB, 474x427)
36 KB
36 KB JPG
>>3892220
>Y
now or never
>>
File: 1497402795130.jpg (192 KB, 1920x1080)
192 KB
192 KB JPG
>>3892220
Thankfully, the two F-15s take the bait, but they act in a manner that you didn't expect. Whether through coordination or panicked incompetence, the two F-15s break in opposite directions, completely ruining their cohesion. However, the move catches you off guard, and you fail to fall in behind either of them.

Thankfully, though, one of them flies off towards the mountains, apparently under the belief you were on his tail and he hits afterburner, propelling himself away from the immediate battle.

The other F-15, though, made a beeline to catch up with the bomber force. At that speed, he could catch Misono in the back!

>Hit afterburners and try to catch up to him.
>Hit him with missiles from behind.
>Other
>>
>>3892253
>>Hit him with missiles from behind.
>>
>>3892253
>Hit afterburners and try to catch up to him.
>>
>>3892253
>Hit afterburners and try to catch up to him.
>>
>>3892253
>Hit afterburners and try to catch up to him.
>>
>>3892253
>>Hit him with missiles from behind.
>>
>>3892253
>Hit him with missiles from behind.
Guys Merc already said that F-15s are faster than what we're using.
Stop chasing him.
>>
>>3892253
>Hit him with missiles from behind.
>>
>>3892253
>>Hit afterburners and try to catch up to him.
>>
>>3892253
>Hit him with missiles from behind.

F-15s have a higher thrust-to-weight ratio than our F-16. We can't win in a run.
>>
File: 64049896_p0.png (2.22 MB, 1400x968)
2.22 MB
2.22 MB PNG
Rolled 6 (1d10)

>>3892253
You pop off a pair of missiles. You weren't likely to catch an F-15 in a dead run. Your only shot was to try and hit him with missiles. At the very least, you could force him to back off from Misono...

>Roll 1d10 (AtA test 5)
>>
Rolled 5 (1d10)

>>3892273
>>
Rolled 10 (1d10)

>>3892273
>>
Rolled 5 (1d10)

>>3892273
>>
Rolled 2 (1d10)

>>3892273

>>3892276
Ffs
>>
>>3892276
Y, press fucking Y
That's like 3 10 rolls to end 3 million lives in a row right there people, what the hell is wrong with you?
>>
>>3892286
Nah we still passed don't worry.
>>
>>3892286
It's just been a rough night for rolls. On the plus side, the npc rolls have also been shit so
>>
>>3892288
>>3892291
Starting to get flashbacks to the mission where Milly was constantly failing rolls.
>>
File: Low Flying Eagle.webm (2.98 MB, 1280x720)
2.98 MB
2.98 MB WEBM
>>3892273
You track your missiles as they home in on the F-15's tail. The F-15 realizes the danger and banks hard, juking one of the missiles as it sails off into the night. However, he can't dodge the second one, which explodes and flames out one of his engines.

"Shit! I need help! I need help!" You hear him cry over the radio.

"'I'm on the bogey, don't worry about it." The other F-15 responds.

"Hrothir Team, where the hell are you!? We're getting torn to pieces out here!" Another voice, presumably from the bomber squadron, yells. "Something's already taken down Strike Four! Do your damn job!"

"I'm on it!" The wounded F-15 replies, banking back to link up with the bomber formation.

Shit, while you were certain Misono could deal with a damaged F-15, that could give the bombers the time needed to complete their attack run. However, your radar was already warning you the second F-15 had circled around and was now rejoining the battle. He was only seconds away from getting into missile range of you...

>Finish off the damaged F-15.
>You have to turn and engage the second F-15.
>Dive for the deck to shake the second F-15.
>Other
>>
>>3892304
>Dive for the deck to shake the second F-15.
>>
>>3892304
>Finish off the damaged F-15.
>>
>>3892304
>You have to turn and engage the second F-15.

The crippled one is no danger. We gotta deal with his buddy tho.
>>
>>3892304
>>Dive for the deck to shake the second F-15.
>>
>>3892304
>>Dive for the deck to shake the second F-15.
>>
File: 1457486689597.jpg (34 KB, 839x514)
34 KB
34 KB JPG
Rolled 8 (1d10)

>>3892304
Argh, you had to shake this asshole, first. You couldn't afford to have him be hounding your tail all night!

So you press your stick forward, nosing down and rapidly dropping your altitude.

>Roll 1d10 (ACM test 6)
>>
Rolled 2 (1d10)

>>3892325
>>
Rolled 4 (1d20)

>>3892325
>>
Rolled 9 (1d10)

>>3892325
>>
File: 1565763508918.jpg (8 KB, 170x170)
8 KB
8 KB JPG
>>3892325
>Coffin/drone hornet
>not a superhornet
weird pic desu
>>
File: Milly 4.png (292 KB, 781x1100)
292 KB
292 KB PNG
>>3892325
You dive for the deck, and the second F-15 breaks off, obviously not wanting to risk flying so fast so low to the ground

Meanwhile, up ahead, you can see the flash of an explosion, briefly illuminating the surrounding countryside.

"Escort down!" Misono happily reports. "Two enemy bombers remain! They're both on the run!"

Damn. Your mission was to destroy the bombers, not chase them off. You couldn't risk letting them get away!

>You and Misono team up on the last few bombers.
>You go for the bomber while Misono zones out the last escort.
>Let Misono finish off the bombers while you handle the last escort.
>Other
>>
>>3892337
>>You and Misono team up on the last few bombers
>>
>>3892337
>Let Misono finish off the bombers while you handle the last escort.
>>
>>3892337
>>You and Misono team up on the last few bombers.
>>
>>3892337
>You and Misono team up on the last few bombers.
>>
>>3892337
Well shit. Was kind of hoping that guy would get away :(
>You and Misono team up on the last few bombers.
>>
>>3892337
>Let Misono finish off the bombers while you handle the last escort.
>>
>>3892337
>>You and Misono team up on the last few bombers.
>>
>>3892337
>>Let Misono finish off the bombers while you handle the last escort.
Die
>>
File: 1530003635781.jpg (143 KB, 1500x887)
143 KB
143 KB JPG
>>3892337
"Let's finish these bastards off!" You call out to Misono as you hit afterburner.

"Gladly!" Misono says happily.

You and Misono vector in on the last two Tu-160s like wolves on the hunt. The Tu-160s' engines flare up as they try to pick up speed, but they're still laden with their cruise missiles, never having had a chance to fire them off. Good, that meant they couldn't get up to speed.

You and Misono decide not to take any risks, banging off missiles at the heavy bombers and knocking them out of the sky. Both bombers slam into the side of the mountain range, fuel and munitions cooking off in a spectacular show of secondary detonations.

Meanwhile, the last escort is seen prowling the outer edge of your missile range. He wasn't an immediate threat, and with the bombers gone, he has no reason to stick around. But here he was.

Was he waiting for you and Misono to turn your backs to him? Or was he merely observing what your next move would be?

>Leave the escort and return to the castle.
>Chase off the escort.
>Other
>>
>>3892360
>Leave the escort and return to the castle.
>>
>>3892360
>Leave the escort and return to the castle.
Suspicious, I don't think there's gonna be an ambush or anything but our job here is done. Maybe
>>
How does Misono feel helping another former Erusean territory fight them?
>>
>>3892362
On the one hand he might want a knightly duel. On the other enough blood has been spilt already. This isn't our war, and its not like we have love for the rebels. I'm torn.
>>
>>3892365
Oh boy, I bet he's gonna give us an earful in the radio.
>>
>>3892360
>>Other
Hail him. See if he wants to go for round 2.
>>
>>3892360
>Other
>use radio
"Erusean of Hrothir Squadron, do you consider our business Unfinished?"
>>
>>3892360
>Leave the escort and return to the castle.
>>
>>3892360

>>3892362
Switching from this to
>>3892369
>>3892373
These.
>>
File: 1530003532041.jpg (369 KB, 1920x1080)
369 KB
369 KB JPG
>>3892360
"What do we do about the final escort?" Misono asks.

"Leave him be." You sigh. "I don't think he's gonna cause trouble."

"How do you know?" Misono wonders.

"Just call it a hunch." You reply.

"I would very much like to have a skill like that." Misono sighs.

The second escort continues to shadow you and Misono, but doesn't give chase. Even he had to know he would be outnumbered if he tried to charge in, and it would very easy to draw him into an energy fight.

"Damn mercenaries." You hear him mutter.

You fight the urge to reply to him. After all, you officially weren't supposed to be here. No sense in giving the Eruseans more ways to identify you.

Well, at least you and Misono got the job done. There's now way those Sol Squadron boys can doubt you now!

>And that's all for tonight! As always, next thread will be on Friday, so don't miss it!
>>
>>3892388
Thanks for running Merc!
>>
>>3892388
???????
i think you got the count wrong boss
>>
File: b o r d e r s.png (264 KB, 1024x630)
264 KB
264 KB PNG
>>3892388
Thanks for the run Merc.
Also that was 3 on 2 merc wtf
>>
Once we get a hold of the Wyvern wreckage, I think we should do something to honor Mihaly. It doesn't have to be big. Maybe name the weapon systems co-pilot AI after him or something?
>>
>>3892652
Yes
>>
>>3892652
Call it Dimitri, the Belkan version of Mihaly's second name Dumitru. Also the name of Belka's former No.1 Knight.
>>
>>3892652
Archange.

For what the "A" stands for in his name.



Delete Post: [File Only] Style:
[Disable Mobile View / Use Desktop Site]

[Enable Mobile View / Use Mobile Site]

All trademarks and copyrights on this page are owned by their respective parties. Images uploaded are the responsibility of the Poster. Comments are owned by the Poster.